A Study of the Effects of Handedness on Portable Angle Grinder Risk

Abstract

This study investigates the underlying cause of occupational hazards for left-handed construction workers when using portable angle grinders on construction sites. The study was conducted through a survey of 42 participants in South Korean construction companies to gather information on their tasks involving portable angle grinders. The survey covered handle preferences, grip strength assessment, and work posture observations. Furthermore, a qualitative comparison of the work risk for left-handed and right-handed construction workers using a handheld angle grinder for cutting was conducted. Results showed that the grip strength of a left-handed worker’s dominant and non-dominant hands did not significantly vary, implying that grip strength does not significantly affect their work performance. However, left-handed workers exhibited a higher likelihood of accidents due to poor work postures. Improvements to workplace safety by ensuring the use of ambidextrous tools and promoting tailored safety measures and training for left-handed workers were recommended.

Keywords

• left-handedness
• portable angle grinder
• work(grip) strength
• work posture
• construction industry
• South Korea